Dawn Ray’d – To Know the Light

Liverpool’s Dawn Ray’d return with “To Know the Light,” an album that pushes the boundaries of their signature RABM (Red and Anarchist Black Metal) sound. This record is a potent blend of black metal aggression, folk melodies, and socially conscious lyrics, making for a truly unique and thought-provoking listening experience.

Track-by-Track:

• The Beginning of the End: The album opens with a haunting soundscape, setting the stage for the thematic exploration of societal disillusionment. Folk melodies weave through a backdrop of distorted guitars, creating an atmosphere that is both ominous and strangely beautiful.
• City of Broken Dreams: The tempo picks up with “City of Broken Dreams.” Simon Barr’s vocals shift between a ferocious black metal rasp and a more clean-sung delivery, reflecting the song’s lyrical exploration of urban decay and social injustice.
• Fire (Burn): This track is a full-on black metal assault, complete with blast beats, tremolo picking, and scathing vocals. However, it’s punctuated by a soaring violin melody that adds a touch of unexpected beauty. Thematically, “Fire (Burn)” serves as a potent call to action, urging listeners to fight against oppression.
• Freedom in Retrograde: A stark change of pace arrives with “Freedom in Retrograde.” This acoustic-driven track evokes the spirit of folk-punk, with its introspective lyrics and singalong chorus. It serves as a welcome respite from the album’s intensity while still reinforcing its core message.
• Cruel Optimisms: Spoken word poetry delivered over a bed of melancholic strings introduces “Cruel Optimisms.” The track then explodes into a furious display of black metal fury, showcasing the band’s ability to seamlessly blend diverse styles.
• In the Shadow of the Past: This track injects a dose of sludge metal into the mix. Down-tuned guitars and crushing riffs create a sense of oppressive despair, perfectly reflecting the song’s exploration of historical injustices.
• To Know the Light (Part I & II): The album’s centerpiece is a sprawling two-part suite. Part I is a slow-burning instrumental that builds tension and atmosphere. Part II explodes into a triumphant display of black metal grandeur, complete with soaring vocals and a sense of newfound hope.
• Exit Through the Ghost Door: The album concludes with a haunting instrumental that leaves a sense of contemplation in its wake. The clean guitar melodies offer a glimmer of optimism, suggesting a possibility of a brighter future despite the struggles explored throughout the record.

Verdict:

“To Know the Light” is a bold and ambitious album that pushes the boundaries of black metal. Dawn Ray’d seamlessly blends aggression with folk melodies, creating a unique and captivating sound. The album’s socially conscious lyrics further elevate the experience, making it a potent call to arms for a better tomorrow. While some listeners may find the genre-bending experimentation jarring, those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally charged album will find much to appreciate here.

Score: 4.5 out of 5